Title:
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack that’s easy to make and perfect for on-the-go? Look no further! This Homemade Mixed Berry Fruit Leather recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also uses wholesome ingredients without additives. Fruit leather is a chewy treat made from pureed fruit, and it's a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fresh berries, making it a fine alternative to store-bought snacks loaded with preservatives. Let's dive right into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2-3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust based on berry sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 170°F (or 75°C). If your oven cannot go this low, you can use the lowest setting available.
- Prepare the Berries: If you're using fresh berries, rinse them thoroughly and remove any stems. If you have frozen berries, allow them to thaw completely.
- Blend the Mixture: In a blender or food processor, combine the mixed berries, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, salt, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend until smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well-mixed.
- Strain (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds, although this step is optional.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the berry puree onto the parchment paper, spreading it into an even layer about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
- Dry the Mixture: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let it dry for 4-6 hours. The fruit leather is ready when it feels tacky but isn’t sticky and can be peeled off the parchment easily. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-drying.
- Cool and Cut: Once dried, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Use scissors or a pizza cutter to cut the fruit leather into strips or squares.
- Store and Enjoy: You can store your homemade mixed berry fruit leather in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for extended freshness. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag.
Conclusion
And there you have it! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your very own Homemade Mixed Berry Fruit Leather that’s not only healthy but irresistibly scrumptious. This delightful treat perfect for lunchboxes, hikes, or a sweet snack any time of day. Plus, it's a fantastic way to preserve seasonal berries—enjoy the flavors of summer all year round! Happy snacking!
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